1870 Proof Double Eagle Pattern - J-1038

Coin Details

Auction Record

$46,000 PR64 01-01-2009 Heritage Auctions

Description

The largest coin in the 1870 Standard Silver pattern program, J-1038 was struck in copper from the regular twenty dollar double eagle dies. At 34mm in diameter, the double eagle provided the most dramatic canvas for off-metal experimentation, and the copper striking's warm reddish-brown tones give the iconic Liberty Head obverse and eagle-with-shield reverse a character entirely foreign to the golden original. Copper double eagle patterns are imposing objects, their sheer size making the compositional departure from gold impossible to overlook. These pieces attracted serious collector interest upon their production, and auction records confirm sustained demand through the present day.

Rarity Notes

R-7. Extremely rare, estimated 4-12 examples known. High R-7+ per some references.

Cross References

Judd-1038, Pollock-1173